Variability, Measure of

Variability, meaning differences, is a critical construct in research and science. Objects and events that are constant do not require prediction or explanation. The advancement of science depends on the extent that the differences between objects and events are explainable and predictable. The goal of the scientist and researcher is to create parsimonious scientific models that predict the variability between objects and events and to test those models against the real world. The ability of the scientist and researcher to measure variability allows the assessment of competing scientific models and theories about the world.

There is a confusing array of symbols in the statistical world, all measuring variability. When referring to a theoretical probability model, the variability is symbolized by VAR(X) and might be described with ...